App Review: WordFu – Your Training Has Begun

WordFu is a fast-paced word game. The object of the game is to spell as many words as you can with the letters that you have before time runs out. There are a couple of interesting twists, though. When you start a game, you are given 9 dice with letters on them and 20 seconds on the clock. You can use this time to “stack the deck,” if you will. You can actually change the letters that you have to work with. If you want a whole new set of letters, just shake your iPhone/iPod Touch and all of the dice will be rolled. If you like most of the letters and only want to change a few, tap the ones you want to change and they will be rolled again. When you are satisfied with your letters tap “Go” and the game will continue. Don’t be too picky choosing your letters either because when the 20 seconds are up, the game will move on ready or not.

In this next phase of the game, your knowledge of words and spelling is tested. You are given 44 seconds on the clock. You must earn a certain number of points by spelling words before time runs out. If you reach your goal, you keep going. As long as you keep spelling words and getting points, you will earn dies that have bonuses for you and have time added to your clock. These bonuses include a time freeze, double points, and the ability to flip one of your die, all of which can be very helpful. If you fail to spell enough words and let time run out, the game is over.

To spell a word, you simply tap on the lettered dice in the right order to spell a word. You may use each die more than once. Or, you can play in Shaolin Style, using each die only once per word (see the options menu to enable Shaolin Style). When you have spelled your word, give your device a little shake and your word will be submitted. You will either be rewarded with points for a good word or have points taken away for incorrect spellings or words that aren’t really words. If you repeat a word, you will not be penalized, but the word will be erased so that you can continue to spell.

You can compete with yourself for high scores or try to earn belts, just like in Kung Fu. There are several belts to be earned and each is associated with a certain feat. Some are earned by reaching a high number of points and others for the type of words spelled. When you are tired of playing on your own, you can always play against someone else on the same Wi-Fi network for added challenge and excitement.

Overall, a well-written, challenging, and entertaining game to play. The Kung Fu take on the game really adds a lot.